A perspective from Palau.

• Author: Kyota, Hersey
• Position: Addressing problem of illegal drugs

(Excerpt from statement at the General Assembly Special Sessions)

We are a small-island nation located just north of the equator in the western Pacific Ocean. We are an island paradise, the foremost scuba diving destination in the world. Our rock islands are an international treasure, and our waters are pristine. Our streets are safe; and we have relatively little crime. We have a strong constitutional Government and cultural values developed from our ancestors that permeate every aspect of our society. But in our paradise we, too, experience the scourge and horror of illegal drugs, particularly among young people.

Over the last few years, a newly introduced drug-methamphetamine, commonly known as "ice" - has become a major problem, in addition to the existing problem of marijuana in Palau. The range of people who use "ice" has expanded to include people as young as 13 and 14 years old. Although our law enforcement authorities are well trained and respected, we lack the technology, expertise and technical knowledge to effectively combat this terrible problem of illegal drugs.

The lessons from our country should be clear. First, illegal drugs and the damage they cause to society and families are not limited to places around the world that suffer economically or do not have high levels of education or opportunity. Secondly, the leaders of countries must admit to the realities and reach of the illegal drug problem. We can no longer pretend that it is not there, no matter how well the country is doing. Thirdly, the...